Bicycle cable retention and storage system

ABSTRACT

A bicycle may include a frame comprising a hollow tube having an interior, a cable passing through the interior, and a cable retainer within the interior. The cable retainer may include a flexible panel, in a closed state, wrapped about the cable, and a connector releasably securing the flexible panel in the closed state.

BACKGROUND

Bicycles are frequently used for transportation and recreation. Somebicycles may include electrical batteries for powering bicycleelectronics or for propelling the bicycle with electric motors. Manybicycles include cables for braking, controlling propulsion of thebicycle such as for switching between different gear ratios and/or forcontrolling the electric motors. Many bicycles may include externalstorage systems such as beverage bottle cages, baskets, bags, and racksfor storing and carrying items during a bike ride.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a sectional view schematically illustrating portions of anexample bicycle having an example storage system with a latch in alatched state.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view schematically illustrating the portions ofthe example bicycle of FIG. 1 with the latch of the example storagesystem and an unlatched state.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view schematically illustrating portions of anexample bicycle having example storage system with a latch in a latchedstate.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view schematically illustrating portions of anexample bicycle having an example storage system with a latch in alatched state.

FIG. 5 is a side view of an example bicycle.

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of an example frame of the bicycle ofFIG. 5 .

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle of FIG. 5 taken alongline 7-7.

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary perspective view of a portion of the bicycle ofFIG. 5 illustrating an example tube and tube storage having an examplecover and an example latch in a latched state.

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the portion of the examplebicycle of FIG. 8 .

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the example cover of the bicycleof FIG. 8 .

FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view of the example cover of the bicycleof FIG. 8 .

FIG. 12 is a bottom exploded perspective view of the cover, the latchand portions of the tube of the bicycle of FIG. 8 .

FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of the portions of the bicycle of FIG.8 illustrating the latch in a latched state without the cover.

FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of the portions of the bicycle of FIG.8 illustrating the latch in an unlatched state without the cover.

FIG. 15 is a fragmentary top perspective view of the portions of thebicycle of FIG. 8 transparently illustrating the cover with the latch ina latched state.

FIG. 16 is a fragmentary top perspective view of the portions of thebicycle of FIG. 8 transparently illustrating the cover with the latch inan unlatched state.

FIG. 17 is a fragmentary perspective view of the portions of the bicycleof FIG. 8 illustrating pivoting and translation of the cover while thelatch is in the unlatched state.

FIG. 18 is a fragmentary perspective view of the portions of the bicycleof FIG. 8 illustrating disconnection of the cover from the latch andfurther withdrawal of the cover from the tube.

FIG. 19 is an exploded fragmentary perspective view of portions of anexample bicycle having an example tube storage.

FIG. 20A is a fragmentary perspective view illustrating the portions ofthe bicycle of FIG. 19 with a latch in an unlatched state and mountingof a cover to a tube of the bicycle.

FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view of the portions of the bicycle ofFIG. 20A.

FIG. 21A is a fragmentary perspective view of the portions of thebicycle of FIG. 19 with the cover closing an access opening of the tubestorage.

FIG. 21B as a cross-sectional view of the portions of the bicycle ofFIG. 21A.

FIG. 22A is a fragmentary perspective view of the portions of thebicycle FIG. 19 illustrating movement of the latch to a latched state.

FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the portions of the bicycle ofFIG. 22A.

FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the portions of the bicycle of FIG. 22A.

FIG. 24 is a fragmentary perspective view of the portions of the bicycleof FIG. 8 illustrating an example cable retainer and example tubepouches within the example tube which is illustrated without the coverand the latch.

FIG. 25 is a fragmentary perspective view of the portions of the bicycleof FIG. 8 illustrating the example cable retainer and an example tubepouch within the example tube which is illustrated without the cover andthe latch.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the example cable retainer of thebicycle of FIG. 25 with an example flexible panel in an opened stateabout an example cabling.

FIG. 27 is an end view of the example cable retainer FIG. 26 taken alongline 27-27.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the example cable retainer of FIG. 26in a closed state, wrapped about the example cabling.

FIG. 29 is a fragmentary perspective view of the portions of the bicycleof FIG. 8 illustrating the cable retainer within the example tubewithout any tube pouches, the cover or the latch.

FIG. 30 is a fragmentary perspective view of the portions of the bicycleof FIG. 29 illustrating a portion of the cable retainer positionedoutside the example tube.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of one of the example tube pouches of thebicycle of FIG. 24 .

FIG. 32 is a top view of the example tube pouch of FIG. 31 .

FIG. 33 is a top perspective view of the example tube pouch of FIG. 31in an opened state.

FIG. 34 is a top perspective view of the example tube pouch of FIG. 31in the opened state.

FIG. 35 is a bottom view of the example tube pouch of FIG. 31 prior toassembly completion.

FIG. 36 is a top view of the example tube pouch of FIG. 31 prior toassembly completion.

FIG. 37 is an exploded perspective view of an example laminateconstruction of an outer wall of the example tube pouch of FIG. 31 .

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the portions of the bicycle of FIG. 8illustrating insertion of the example tube pouch into the example tube.

FIG. 39 is a sectional view of the portions of the example bicycle FIG.8 illustrating the example tube pouch position within the example tube.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the portions of the bicycle if You canrelate illustrating withdrawal of the example tube pouch from theexample tube.

FIG. 41 is a sectional view of portions of an example bicycle, FIG. 41illustrating an example cable retainer with a removed cover.

FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view of the example bicycle of FIG. 41 .

Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar,but not necessarily identical, elements. The figures are not necessarilyto scale, and the size of some parts may be exaggerated to more clearlyillustrate the example shown. Moreover, the drawings provide examplesand/or implementations consistent with the description; however, thedescription is not limited to the examples and/or implementationsprovided in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES

Disclosed are example bicycles that utilize an interior of an existinghollow tube of a bicycle frame for internal storage. The internalstorage is accessed through an access opening which is closed by acover. A latch releasably secures the cover to the tube. The latchremains coupled to the tube and is disconnected from the cover while theinternal storage is being accessed. Because the latch remains coupled tothe tube during such storage access and is not part of the cover, thelatch may be integrated as part of the bicycle frame and construction ofthe cover is simplified.

In some implementations, the latch and adjacent portions of thesurrounding tube have corresponding exterior surface shapes, wherein thelatch is at least partially recessed such that its exterior surfaces areflush with exterior surfaces of the tube when the latch is in a latchedstate. In some implementations, the latch and adjacent portions of thecover have corresponding exterior surface shapes, wherein the latch andthe cover are flush when the latch is in a latched state. As a result,the tube of the bicycle providing the internal storage maintains a sleekand aerodynamic construction and appearance despite the inclusion of thecover and latch.

In some implementations, the latch is slidable relative to the cover ina direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tube between alatched state and an unlatched state. In some implementations, the latchis rotatable relative to the tube between a latched state and anunlatched state. In some implementations, latch may comprise a cylinderwhich encircles the tube. Such constructions may facilitate a flushrelationship between the exterior surfaces of the latch, the coverand/or the tube and may facilitate a less complex cover construction.

Disclosed are example bicycles that utilize an interior of an existinghollow tube of a bicycle frame to route bicycle cables while alsoallowing the interior to be used for internal storage. The examplebicycles comprise a cable retainer that is to be positioned within theinterior of the hollow tube. The cable retainer comprises a panel thatwraps about one or more cables within the tube and retains the one ormore cables along an interior side of the tube to provide unencumberedstorage alongside the panel.

In some implementations, the panel may have a first portion secured toan inside of the tube, and a second portion that pivots relative to thefirst portion between a first position inside the tube and a secondposition adjacent the first portion, wrapped about the cable. Such aconstruction may facilitate easier access to the internally routedcables. In some implementations, the second portion may include a pocketor pouch for containing items to be stored inside the tube.

In some implementations, the panel is adhesively secured adjacent to theinterior surface of the tube. In some implementations, the panel isretained in a wrapped state about the cable with a hook and loopfastener.

In some implementations, an article, such as a tool or key, may betethered to the panel. In some implementations, the tether may besufficiently long to allow the article to be removed from the interiorthe tube while remaining tethered to the panel. In some implementations,the panel is removably coupled or secured within the interior the tubesuch the panel in the tethered article may be removed from the interiorof the tube. In some implementations, a tether may extend from the paneland have a connector for releasably connecting to a pouch, a tool orother article. In some implementations, the tether may be sufficientlylong such that the connector may be withdrawn from the tube tofacilitate disconnection of the article from the tether or connection ofan article to the tether.

Disclosed are example bicycles that comprise a frame, a cover and alatch. The frame may include a hollow tube having an interior and anaccess opening to the interior, wherein the cover closes the accessopening. The latch is movably coupled to the tube and releasably securesthe cover to the tube. The latch is movable relative to the tube and thecover between a latched state and an unlatched state, wherein the latchremains coupled to the tube and is disconnected from the cover in theunlatched state.

Disclosed are example bicycles that comprise a frame comprising a hollowtube having an interior, a cable passing through the interior, and acable retainer within the interior. The cable retainer may include aflexible panel, in a closed state, wrapped about the cable, and aconnector releasably securing the flexible panel in the closed state.

Disclosed are example bicycles that comprise a frame having a hollowtube with an interior and an access opening to the interior, wherein acover closes the access opening. A latch is movably coupled to the tubeand releasably secures the cover to the tube. The latch is slidablerelative to the cover in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinalaxis of the tube between a latched state and unlatched state.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” shall mean thejoining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Suchjoining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joiningmay be achieved with the two members or the two members and anyadditional intermediate members being integrally formed as a singleunitary body with one another or with the two members or the two membersand any additional intermediate member being attached to one another.Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may beremovable or releasable in nature. The term “operably coupled” shallmean that two members are directly or indirectly joined such that motionmay be transmitted from one member to the other member directly or viaintermediate members.

For purposes of this disclosure, the phrase “configured to” denotes anactual state of configuration that fundamentally ties the statedfunction/use to the physical characteristics of the feature proceedingthe phrase “configured to”.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “releasably” or “removably”with respect to an attachment or coupling of two structures means thatthe two structures may be repeatedly connected and disconnected, orcoupled and decoupled, to and from one another without material damageto either of the two structures or their functioning.

Bicycle 20

FIGS. 1 and 2 are sectional views schematically illustrating portions ofan example bicycle 20. Bicycle 20 comprises frame 22 and storage system50. Frame 22 supports the remaining components of bicycle 20 such as itspedals, handlebars, seat, gears, wheels and the like (examples of whichare shown in FIG. 5 ). Frame 22 comprises a hollow tube 54 having ahollow interior 56 which may be accessed for storage using storagesystem 50. In some implementations, tube 54 and interior 56 have acircular cross-section. In some implementations, tube 54 and interior 56have a non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as an oval or polygonalcross-sectional shape. In some implementations, tube 54 comprises a downtube of bicycle 20. In yet other implementations, tube 54 may compriseother portions of the frame 22 of bicycle such as a seat tube, a crossor top tube, a head tube, or other tubes or posts of bicycle 20.

Storage system 50 facilitates storage of articles, such as clothing,food, tools or supplies, within interior 56. Storage system 50 comprisesaccess opening 60, cover 62 and latch 64. Access opening 60 comprise anopening through the outer side wall of tube 54, the opening beingsufficiently sized to facilitate the manual insertion of items intointerior 56. In one implementation, access opening 60 has an axiallength (at its longest extent) extending along a centerline of tube 54of at least 2 inches and a transverse width (at its widest extent) of atleast 1 inches. In some implementations, access opening 60 extends alonga top side of tube 54, facing upwardly. In some implementations, accessopening 60 extends along a side of tube 54.

Cover 62 comprise a panel or other structure closing access opening 60.Cover 62 is configured to be moved to uncover and expose axis opening 60for the insertion of articles into interior 56. In some implementations,cover 62 seals access opening 60 to inhibit the ingress of water, dirtor other contaminants into interior 56. In some implementations, cover62 may be tethered to tube 54, wherein cover 62 remains attached to tube54, hanging from tube 54 or otherwise offset from access opening 60 touncover access opening 60. In some implementations, cover 62 iscompletely separable or withdrawable from tube 54 when access opening 60is uncovered for insertion of articles into interior 56. In the exampleillustrated, cover 62 projects above the outer exterior surface of tube54.

Latch 64 is movably coupled to tube 54 and releasably secures cover 62to tube 54. Latch 64 moves relative to the tube and the cover between alatched state and an unlatched state. When in the unlatched state, latch64 remains coupled to the tube 54 and is disconnected from cover 62. Insome implementations, latch 64 slides between the latched and unlatchedstate. Latch 64 slides relative to cover 62 in a direction perpendicularto a longitudinal axis 59 of tube 54. In some implementations, latch 64rotationally slides about tube 54 when moving from the latched state tothe unlatched state and vice versa.

FIG. 1 illustrates latch 64 in a latched state, engaging cover 62 toreleasably secure cover 62 to tube 54 and over access opening 60. FIG. 2illustrates latch 64 in an unlatched state, disengaged from cover 62. Asa result, cover 62 may be moved to a position in which cover 62 does notcover access opening 60 or only partially covers access opening 60 suchthat articles may be inserted into interior 56 of tube 54. In someimplementations, cover 62 may be lifted and/or pivoted out of connectionwith tube 54 without any resistance from latch 64. As discussed above,in some implementations, cover 62 may be tethered to tube 54. In someimplementations, cover 62 may be completely separated from tube 54. Inthe unlatched state, latch 64 remains coupled to the tube 54 and isdisconnected from the cover 62 while the internal storage is beingaccessed. Because the latch 64 remains coupled to the tube 54 duringsuch storage access and is not part of the cover 62, the latch 64 may beintegrated as part of the bicycle frame 22 and construction of the cover62 is simplified.

As schematically illustrated, in one example implementation, latch 64comprises a cover engagement portion 68 which engages cover 62 in thelatched state to retain cover 62 in place to tube 54 and over accessopening 60. Latch 64 may be moved to reposition cover engagement portion68 such that cover 62 may be lifted and/or pivoted out of engagementwith latch 64 such that cover 62 may be moved to open access opening 60.In one example implementation, cover engagement portion 68 may be slidto a latching position which cover engagement portion 68 overlies aprojecting portion of cover 62, preventing cover 62 from being liftedaway from tube 254. Cover engagement portion 68 may be further slid toan unlatched position in which cover engagement portion 68 no longeroverlies the projecting portion of cover 62 such that cover 62 may belifted away from tube 254.

In the example illustrated, cover 62 has an exterior surface 63 whilelatch 64 has an exterior surface 65. Surfaces 63 and 65 are flush withone another when cover 62 is an axis opening covering position and whenlatch 65 is in a latched state. For purposes of this disclosure, twoadjacent surfaces described as being “flush” with one another means thatthe adjacent surfaces have edges that are identical in shape and thatabut one another edge-to-edge at the same height or three-dimensionalcoordinates in space, providing an otherwise smooth continuous surfacebut for any gap or seam between the abutting edges of the adjacentsurfaces. Surfaces 63 and 65 are not flush with the outer exteriorsurface of tube 54. In other implementations, surfaces 63 and 65 may notbe flush with one another such as when such surfaces have differentshapes or profiles or such as when such adjacent surfaces project aboveor from tube 54 by different extents.

Bicycle 120

FIG. 3 a sectional view schematically illustrating portions of anexample bicycle 120. FIG. 3 illustrates an example of how a latch andcover of a storage system may be provided with exterior surfaces thatare flush with adjacent exterior surfaces of a bicycle tube to maintainthe sleek and aerodynamic profile of the bicycle tube and frame. Bicycle120 is similar to bicycle 20 described above except that bicycle 120comprises a frame 122 having a tube 154. The remaining components ofbicycle 120 which correspond to components of bicycle 20 are numberedsimilarly.

Tube 154 is similar to tube 54 except that tube 154 comprises a recessedportion 68 adjacent to and about access opening 60. Recessed portion 68is sized and located such that those portions of exterior surface 63 ofcover adjacent to the exterior surface 155 of tube 154 are flush withexterior surface 155. Recessed portion 68 is sized and located such thatthose portions of exterior surface 65 of latch adjacent to exteriorsurface 155 of tube 154 are flush with exterior surface 155. In theexample illustrated, adjacent portions of the exterior surfaces 63 and65 are also flush with one another.

As with bicycle 20, latch 65 moves between a latched state and unlatchedstate while remaining coupled to the tube. In the unlatched state, latchis disconnected from cover 62, such that cover 62 may be moved orrepositioned so as to uncover access opening 60, permitting access tointerior 56 of tube 154. Because adjacent exterior surfaces of the latchand the cover are flush with one another and with adjacent exteriorsurface portions of tube 154 when the latch 64 is in a latched state,frame 122 maintains a sleek and aerodynamic construction and appearancedespite the inclusion of the cover 62 and latch 64.

Bicycle 220

FIG. 4 is a sectional view schematically illustrating portions of anexample bicycle 220. FIG. 4 illustrates an example of how a latch may berotated about an axis of a bicycle tube between a cover latchingposition or state and a cover unlatching or unlatched position or state.Bicycle 220 comprises frame 222 and storage system 250.

Frame 222 comprises tube 254. As with tube 154, tube 254 has an interior56 and recessed portion 68. In the example illustrated, tube 254 has asection removed to receive and guide a latch of storage system 250.

Storage system 250 comprises access opening 60 and cover 62 (describedabove). Storage system 250 further comprises latch 264. Latch 264 isconfigured to rotate about axis 59 in the direction indicated by arrows267 between a latched state and an unlatched state. Latch 264 is fitbetween tube portions 257-1 and 257-2 (collectively referred to as toportions 257). In the example illustrated, latch 264 comprisesprojecting annular bosses 259-1 and 259-2 (collectively referred to asbosses 259) which are slidably fit within tube portion 257-1 and 257-2,respectively. Bosses 259 interact with tube portions 257 to secure latch264 in place between tube portions 257 and to guide rotation of latch264 about axis 65 as indicated by arrows 267.

As schematically illustrated, latch 264 comprises a cover engagementportion 268 which engages cover 62 in the latched state to retain cover62 in place to tube 254 and over access opening 60. Latch 264 may berotated about axis 59 to move cover engagement portion 268 such thatcover 62 may be lifted and/or pivoted out of engagement with latch 264such that cover 62 may be moved to open access opening 60. In oneexample implementation, cover engagement portion 68 may be rotatable toa latching position which cover engagement portion 68 overlies aprojecting portion of cover 62, preventing cover 62 from being liftedaway from tube 254. Portion 68 may be rotatable to an unlatched positionin which cover engagement portion 68 no longer overlies the projectingportion of cover 62 such that cover 62 may be lifted away from tube 254.

Bicycle 320

FIG. 5 is a side view illustrating an example bicycle 320. FIG. 5illustrates an example of a bicycle that includes cables routed througha tube of the bicycle, wherein the tube includes an access openinghaving a cover which is secured by a latch, a cable retainer whichmanages the cables within the tube and one or more tube pouch(es), whichis/are inserted within the tube through the access opening. Bicycle 320comprises a frame 322, a front wheel 324, a front disc brake system 325,a rear wheel 326, a rear disc brake system 327, a seat 328, a pair ofpedals 330 supported by a pair of crank arms 331, one or more frontsprockets 332, a gear chain 334, rear sprockets 336, a front derailleur338, a rear derailleur 339, handlebars 340, a pair of braking-shiftinglevers 342, internal cabling 344, and a storage system 350 comprisingtube storage 351, a cable retainer 352 and one or more tube pouches 353.

Frame 322 supports the remaining components of bicycle 320. FIG. 6illustrates frame 322 isolated from the remaining components of bicycle320. Frame 322 comprises a seat tube 400, a front or head tube 402, atop or cross tube 404, a down tube 406, a fork 408 and a set of rearstruts 410. Seat tube 400 supports a seat post 412, which supports seat328. Head tube 402 supports handlebars 340 and fork 408. Cross tube 404and down tube 406 extend between seat tube 400 and head tube 402. Fork408 is rotatably coupled to head tube 402 and supports front wheel 324.Rear struts 410 extend rearwardly from seat tube 400 and support rearwheel 326. Some of the various components forming frame 322 may beintegrally formed as a single unitary body or may be layed-up and cured,welded or otherwise joined to one another. Each of such tubes orstructures forming frame 322 may have cylindrical or non-cylindricalshapes. Each such tubes or structures may be hollow to reduce weight.

Front wheel 324 is rotatably supported by fork 408. Front disc brakesystem 325 is supported by fork 408 and is actuatable by cabling 344 toretard the rotation of or brake front wheel 324. Rear wheel 326 isrotatably supported by rear struts 410. Rear disc brake system 327 issupported by rear struts 410 and is actuatable by cabling 344 to retardthe rotation of or brake rear wheel 326. In other implementations, otherbraking system may be employed which are actuated by other forms ofcabling 344. For example, in other implementations, bicycle 320 mayutilize front and rear brakes which include brake pads or bars that areselectively controlled to squeeze against the rims of wheel 324, 326 tobrake their respective rotation.

Seat 328 is supported by seat post 412. Pedals 330 are connected tosprockets 332 by crank arm 331. Front sprockets 332 comprise a singlesprocket or gear, or a set of differently sized gears or sprockets whichare rotatably supported by frame 322. Front sprockets 332 are configuredto be rotated by the rotation of pedals 330, by rider, about the axis ofsprockets 332. Gear chain 332 is selectively connected one of the frontsprockets 332 and is selectively connected to one of rear sprockets 336.Rear sprockets 336 are connected to the hub of rear wheel 326 such thatrotation of the rear sprockets 336 rotates rear wheel 326. Theparticular sprockets connected by gear chain 334 determines the speed orgear ratio of bicycle 320. Gear chain 332 transmits motion and torquefrom the selected one of front sprockets 332 to the selected one of rearsprockets 336 to propel rear wheel 326.

Front derailleur 338 selectively connects gear chain 334 to a selectedone of the different gear wheels or sprockets of front sprockets 332.Front derailleur 338 shifts gear chain 334 from one gear wheel orsprocket to another gear wheel or sprocket of front gear will 332. Frontderailleur 338 many actuated by a rider via cabling 344.

Rear derailleur 339 selectively connects gear chain 334 to a selectedone of the different gear wheels or sprockets of rear sprockets 336.Rear derailleur 339 shifts gear chain 334 from one gear wheel orsprocket to another gear wheel or sprocket of rear sprockets 336. Rearderailleur 339 may be actuated by a rider via cabling 344.

Handlebars 340 are supported by front or head tube 402 of frame 322.Brake-shift levers 342 are movably supported by handlebars 340 and areoperably coupled to cabling 344. Break-shift levers 342 may be locatedon each of the right and left sides of handlebars 340. Brake-shiftlevers 342 are manually actuatable to pull or push individual cables ofcabling 344 so as to individually actuate brake systems 325, 327 andindividually actuate or move derailleur 338, 339 depending upon which ofthe particular ones of levers 342 are moved.

Cabling 344 comprises one or more individual cables which are internallyrouted within portions of frame 322 to various components or systems ofbicycle 320 for selectively actuating such components of bicycle 320. Inthe example illustrated, the individual cables of cabling 344 comprisesbrake and gear cables used to selectively actuate front braking system325, rear braking system 327, front derailleur 338 and/or rearderailleur 339. In other implementations, cabling 344 may be used toactuate other components of a cycle or vehicle.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view through front or head tube 402 takenalong line 7-7 of FIG. 5 . FIG. 7 illustrates the internal routing ofcabling 344 within front tube 402. In the example illustrated, cabling344 comprises four individual cables 420-1, 420-2, 420-3 and 420-4(collectively referred to as cables 420). Cable 420-1 is connected to afirst braking lever of levers 342 and controls front disc braking system325. Cable 420-2 is connected to a second braking lever of levers 342and controls rear disk braking system 327. Cable 420-3 is connected to afirst gear shift lever of levers 342 and controls front derailleur 338.Cable 420-4 is connected to a second gear shift lever of levers 342 andcontrols rear derailleur 339. In the example illustrated, each of cables420 comprises a Bowden cable, such as an inner cable 422 of twistedsteel wire that runs through an outer sleeve 424, extending from thebicycle's control levers on the handlebar to the brakes or derailleurs.

As shown by FIGS. 5 and 7 , the different cables 420 of cabling 344 maybe differently routed through different portions of frame 322. Cable420-1 is routed within handlebar 340, through front tube 402 and throughfork 408 to front disc braking system 325. Cable 420-2 extends withinhandlebar 340, through front tube 402, through down tube 406 and throughrear struts 410 to rear disc braking system 336. Cable 420-3 is routedwithin handlebar 340 and through down tube 406 to front derailleur 338.Cable 420-4 is routed through handlebar 340, through down tube 406 andthrough rear strut 410 to rear derailleur 339. In some implementations,certain portions of each of cables 420 may alternatively be routed alonga side or exterior of certain portions of frame 322.

Storage system 350 utilizes an interior of an existing hollow tube offrame 322 for internal storage. In the example illustrated, storagesystem 350 provides an internal storage volume within down tube 406.Storage system 350 comprises tube storage 351, cable retainer 352, andtube pouches 353. Tube storage 351 facilities the storage of articles orcontainers, such as pouches 353, within the interior of a bicycle frame.Tube storage 351 comprises access opening 360, cover 362 and latch 364.

FIGS. 8-18 illustrate portions of bicycle 320 with an emphasis on tubestorage 351 of storage system 350. As shown by FIGS. 8 and 9 , accessopening 360 extends through down tube 406 of frame 322 along a top sideof down tube 406. As shown by FIG. 8 , down tube 406 has a non-circularcross-sectional shape having a rounded lower surface profile and aflattened upper surface profile. The flattened upper surface profilefacilitates a wider cover 362 and a wider access opening 360 foraccessing interior 356 of tube 406.

As shown by FIG. 9 , the upper side of tube 406 comprises a recessedportion 368 through which access opening 360 extends and a pair of knobsets 425-1 and 425-2 (collectively referred to as knob sets 425).Recessed portion 368 has a flat landing 426 which may offer an enhancedseal with respect to cover 362. As shown by FIG. 8 , recessed portion368 receives cover 362 such that adjacent exterior surface portions ofcover 362 may be flush with those exterior surface portions 355 thatextend about recessed portion 368. Recessed portion 368 further receiveslatch 364 such that adjacent exterior surface portions of latch 364 maybe flush with those exterior surface portions 355 that extend aboutrecessed portion 368. The exterior profiles or shapes of cover 362 andlatch 364 are further similar to or correspond to the exterior surfaceprofile the shapes of those portions of tube 406 about recessed portion368 such that the adjacent exterior surfaces having abutting edges areflush with one another. In addition, the adjacent surface portions ofcover 362 and latch 364 which have abutting edges also have similarsurface shapes or profiles such that such surfaces are flush with oneanother. As a result, the sleek and aerodynamic instruction of down to406 of frame 322 is maintained and the provision of tube storage 351 maybe imperceptible but for the seams between the adjacent components.

Knob sets 425-1 and 425-2 are mounted to landing 426 and are configuredto interact with cover 362 and latch 364, respectively. Each of knobsets 425 comprises a bridge plate 427 supporting a pair of bolts orknobs. Knob set 425-1 comprises knobs 428-1, 428-2 (collectivelyreferred to as knobs 428). Knob set 428-2 comprises a bridge plate 427and knobs 430-1, 430-2 (collectively referred to as knobs 430).

Each of knobs 428, 430 comprises a shaft portion 432 and a wider headportion 434. Shaft portion 432 extends from head portion 434 isexternally threaded. In the example illustrated, each shaft portion 432extends through an opening 436 formed in landing 426 and is threadedinto internally threaded bores of bridge plate 427 which underlies thelanding 426 of tube 406, mounting knob sets 425 to tube 406. In otherimplementations, knobs 428, 430 may be mounted or otherwise secured totube 406 using other fasteners or secured in other fashions. Forexample, in some implementations, knobs 428, 430 may be welded, bondedor otherwise affixed directly to landing 426 of tube 406. In someimplementations, knobs 428, 430 may be integrally formed as part of asingle unitary body with tube 406.

Cover 362 covers and closes access opening 360. As discussed above andas shown FIG. 8 , cover 362 is sized and has an outer surface shape orprofile such that when it is received within recessed portion 368, theexterior surfaces of cover 362 are flush with adjacent exterior surfacesof latch 364 and both portions of tube 406 about recessed portion 368.As shown by FIG. 9 , cover 362 comprises cover panel 440, gasket 442 andinternally threaded cover inserts 444-1, 444-2 (collectively referred toas inserts 444).

Cover panel 440 is received within and together with latch 364 fillsrecessed portion 368. Cover panel 430 has an upper wall 445 with anexterior surface 363 that has a shape which corresponds to the shape ofadjacent surfaces of latch 364 and tube 406. In the example illustrated,cover panel 440 comprises a pair of openings 446-1, 446-2 through whichaccessory connectors may extend and may be mounted. For example, in someimplementations, a beverage bottle cage may be mounted to an above coverpanel 440 with a pair of bolts extending through openings 446 intoconnection with inserts 444.

As shown by FIGS. 10-12 , the lower surface or face of cover panel 440is configured to partially fit within access opening 360 and to interactwith and releasably engage portions of latch 364. The underside of coverpanel 440 comprises lower wall 448, slots 450-1, 450-2 (collectivelyreferred to as slots 450), passages 452-1, 452-2 (collectively referredto as passages 452), and latch engaging tabs 454-1, 454-2 (collectivelyreferred to as tabs 454). Lower wall 448 projects downwardly,perpendicular to, upper wall 445. Lower wall 448 has a shapecorresponding to the shape of access opening 360 and is sized to bereceived within access opening 360 when cover 362 is closing accessopening 360. Lower wall 448 assists in registering cover 362 in placeover access opening 360 and assists in the sealing of access opening 360by cover 362. In the example illustrated, lower wall 448 supports gasket442 which further assists in sealing access opening 360 when cover 360is in place.

Slots 450 project inwardly from end 456 of cover 362 and are sized andlocated for slidably receiving the shaft portions 432 of knobs 428.Slots 450 are narrower than the width or diameter of the head portions434 of knobs 428. Passages 452 extend above slots 450 and are wider thanslots 450. Passages 452 are sized and located two slidably receive thehead portions 434 of knobs such that the knobs assists in retainingcover 362 at end 456.

Tabs 454 comprise projections that extend towards end 458 of cover 362.Tabs 454 underlie an overhanging portion of upper wall 445 and arespaced from upper wall 445 by passage 460. Tabs 454 extend betweenopenings 462. As will be described hereafter, portions of latch 364 movewithin passage 460 between a latched position which portions of latch364 extend over tabs 454 to inhibit lifting of cover 362 away from tube406 and an unlatched position in which the portions of the latch 364extend over openings 462 to permit end 458 of cover 362 to be pivotedupward and subsequently moved to withdraw knobs 428 from theirrespective slots 450 and passages 452, allowing cover 362 to be moved toexpose access opening 360.

Gasket 442 comprises an elastomeric or compressible ring of materialextending about an outer surface of lower wall 438. Gasket 442 is sizedto be tightly fit within access opening 360, between the interior edgesof access opening 360 and lower wall 448, forming a seal between theinterior edges of access opening 360 and lower wall 448. In someimplementations, gasket 442 may be omitted.

Inserts 444 are secured to an underside of cover 362 and includeinternally threaded bores which are aligned with openings 446. Inserts444 threadably receive externally threaded shafts of attachments, whichmay be mounted to tube 406 above cover 362. For example, inserts 444 maythreadably receive externally threaded bolts extending from a waterbottle or beverage bottle cage. In some implementations, openings 446and inserts 444 may be omitted

Latch 364 is movably coupled to tube 406 for movement between a latchedstate (shown in FIG. 13 ) releasably securing cover 362 to tube 406 andan unlatched state (shown in FIG. 14 ), which permits cover 362 to belifted and moved to a position at which access opening 360 is at leastpartially uncovered. As shown by FIG. 9 , latch 364 comprises outerportion 466, guide portion 468 and cover engaging tabs 470-1, 470-2(collectively referred to as tabs 470).

Outer portion 466 comprises that portion of latch 364 which is exposedand extends between end 458 of cover 362 and surface 355 of tube 406. Asshown by FIG. 8 , outer portion 466 has an outer exterior surface 365,which is flush with both the adjacent exterior surface portions 363 ofcover 362 and the outer exterior surface portion 355 of tube 406. Outerportion 466 provides a surface by which a person may move latch 364.

Guide portion 468 extends from outer portion 466 and is configured tounderlie an overhanging portion of upper wall 445. Guide portion 468comprises slots 472-1, 472-2. Slots 472-1, 472-2 slidably receive shaftportions 432 of knobs 430-1 and 430-2, respectively. Slots 472-1, 472have a width narrower than the width of head portions 434 of knobs430-1, 430-2. As a result, knobs 430-1, 430-2 secure latch 364 to tube406 while permitting latch 364 to move relative to tube 406 in adirection transverse or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 473 oftube 406 between an unlatched position (shown in FIG. 12 without cover362) and a latched position (shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 without cover362).

Tabs 470 project from guide portion 468 towards end 458 of cover 362.Tabs 470 extend between openings 474 and are configured to slide withinpassage 460 (shown FIG. 11 ) above latch engaging tabs 454 and openings462. Tabs 470 interact with tab 454 and openings 462 to latch andunlatch cover 362.

FIGS. 15-18 illustrate the movement of latch 364 to unlatch cover 362and further illustrate the removal of cover 362 to provide access to theinterior of tube 406 through access opening 360. FIGS. 15 and 16transparently illustrate cover 362 for purposes of illustration. FIG. 15illustrates latch 364 is in the latched position or state, coverengaging tabs 470-1 and 470-2 overlie latch engaging tabs 454-1 and454-2, respectively, of cover 362. At the same time, head portions 434of knobs 428-1 and 428-2 are captured within passages 452-1 and 452-2above slots 450-1 and 450-2, respectively, and 456 of cover 362 (each ofwhich is shown in FIGS. 9-11 ). As a result, cover 362 is locked inplace, covering access opening 360, and cannot be lifted or separatedfrom tube 406.

FIG. 16 illustrates latch 364 after latch 364 has been moved to theunlatched position or state. FIG. 16 illustrates latch 364 after latch364 has been moved relative to tube 406 in the direction indicated byarrow 475, transverse or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 473 oftube 406. In the unlatched position or state, cover engaging tabs 470-1and 470-2 directly overlie and are aligned with corresponding openings462, whereas latch engaging tabs 454-1, 454-2 of cover 362 directlyunderlie openings 474.

FIG. 17 illustrates the initial pivoting of end 458 of cover 362 awayfrom tube 406 as indicated by arrow 478. During such pivoting, latchengaging tabs 454-1 and 454-2 are up lifted through openings 474. Duringsuch pivoting, head portions 434 of knobs 428-1 and 428-2 may alsoslightly pivot within passages 452-1 and 452-2, respectively. Once end458 of cover 362 has been sufficiently pivoted, cover 362 may betranslated or slid in the direction indicated by arrow 479. During suchsliding movement, knobs 428-1 and 428-2 slide within slots 450-1, 450-2and passages 452-1 and 452-2, respectively, until they are withdrawnfrom slots 450-1, 450-2 and passages 452-1 and 452-2, respectively, asshown by FIG. 17 .

FIG. 18 illustrates cover 362 being lifted away from tube 406 in thedirection indicated by arrow 480. Such lifting results in cover 362exposing access opening 360 provide access to the interior of tube 406.In the example illustrated, such lifting results in cover 362 beingcompletely separated and detached from both tube 406 and latch 364. Inother implementations, cover 362 may alternatively dangle or hang fromtube 406 while access opening 360 is uncovered.

For example, in some implementations, tube storage 351 may additionallycomprise a flexible tether 477, such as a flexible cable, strap, cord orthe like (shown in broken lines) having a first end secured to andextending from cover 362 and a second end secured to tube 406. Tether477 has a length sufficient such that cover 362 may be moved to aposition so as to completely expose access opening 360. In someimplementations, the first end of tether 477 may be in integrally formedas part of a single unitary body with portions of cover 362 or may befixedly attached to cover 362. Likewise, the second end of tether 477may be integrally formed as part of a single unitary body with portionsof tube 406 or may be fixedly attached to tube 406. In the exampleillustrated, tether 477 extends from an underside of cover 362 and isconnected to tube 406 at a location within the interior of tube 406 orwithin recessed portion 368 of tube 406 such that tether 477 may betalked inside of tube 406 when cover 362 is closing access opening 360.In other implementations, tether 477 may be secured to exterior portionsof cover 362 and tube 406.

Bicycle 520 with Alternative Tube Storage

FIGS. 19-26 illustrate portions of an example bicycle 520. FIGS. 19-26illustrate an example of how a cylindrical tube of a bicycle may beprovided with a storage system having a latch that remains coupled tothe tube when in an unlatched state and while being disconnected from acover of the storage system. Bicycle 520 is similar to bicycle 320described above except that bicycle 520 comprises tube 606 and storagesystem 550 in place of tube 406 and storage system 150, respectively. Asshown by FIG. 19 , storage system 550 comprises access opening 560,cover 562 and latch 564. The remaining components of bicycle 520 whichcorrespond to components of bicycle 320 are numbered similarly and/orare shown in FIGS. 5-6 .

Tube 606 is provided as part of frame 322 of bicycle 520. In one exampleimplementation, tube 606 comprises a downtube of bicycle 520. In otherimplementations, tube 606 may form other parts of bicycle frame 322.Tube 606 comprise a hollow cylinder having and interior 556 and asmaller diameter outer recessed portion 568. Interior 556 provides avolume for storing articles within tube 606.

Recessed portion 568 comprise that portion of tube 606 having an outersurface having a reduced outer diameter. In some implementations, tube606 may have a constant wall thickness, wherein portions of the wall oftube 606 are bent or deformed inwardly to form recessed portion 568. Insome implementations, the inner diameter of tube 606 may be constant,wherein the outer diameter of tube 606 is reduced in those regions ofrecessed portion 568. As will be described hereafter, recessed portion568 receives latch 564, facilitating a flush relationship between outeradjacent exterior surfaces of tube 606, cover 562 and latch 564 tomaintain a sleek and aerodynamic construction. Recessed portion 568further provides an outer circumferential surface about which latch 564may rotate between latched and unlatched states.

Cover 562 comprises a cover wall 565 sized and configured to coveraccess opening 560 when positioned on and supported by tube 606. In theexample illustrated, cover 562 is an outer circumferential surface 563which is configured to be flush with the adjacent exterior surfaceportions of tube 606 and latch 564 when cover 562 is closing accessopening 560.

Cover 562 further comprises tube engaging tab 650 and latch engagingtabs 654-1, 654-2 (collectively referred to as tabs 654). Tube engagingtab 650 projects from upper wall 645 at end 656 of cover 562. Tubeengaging tab 650 is size and located so as to project within theinterior 556 of tube 606, adjacent to and below an interior diameter oftube 606 so as to inhibit vertical lifting of cover 562 from tube 606and away from access opening 560.

Latch engaging tabs 654 project from upper wall 645 below upper wall 645at end 658 of cover 562. Latch engaging tabs 654 extent alongsideopenings 662. Latch engaging tabs 654 extend below a passage 660 whichextends above in between such tab 654 and the lower surface of upperwall 645. Latch engaging tabs 654 are sized and configured to engageportions of latch 564 when latch 564 is in the latched state to retaincover 562 in a closed position over access opening 560.

Latch 654 comprises a cylindrical sleeve which wraps about, and whichrotates about the cylindrical outer surface of recessed portion 568 oftube 606. In the example illustrated, latch 654 is severed along line664 and is sufficiently flexible such that latch 654 may be opened,spread apart at line 664 when being wrapped about recessed portion 568.Once positioned about recessed portion 568, adjacent edge portions alongline 664 may be secured or attached to one another to inhibitinadvertent withdrawal from tube 606. In the example illustrated, eachof the opposing edge portions of latch 564 along line 664 comprise ahooked portion 666, permitting the opposite edges along line 6 just forto be snapped and retained together about recessed portion 568. In otherimplementations, edge portions of latch 564 adjacent line 664 may besecured to one another in other fashions. In some implementations, latch564 may comprise a continuous sleeve which is positioned about recessedportion 568 in other fashions.

Latch 564 further comprises cover engaging tabs 670-1 and 670-2(collectively referred to as tabs 670). Tabs 670 project from latch 564towards cover 562 and extent alongside openings 674. Although cover 552and latch 564 are each illustrated as comprising a pair of such tabs, inother implementations, one or both of cover 562 and latch 564 mayinclude other numbers of interacting tabs and associated openings.

FIGS. 20-23 illustrate the positioning of cover 562 over access opening560 to close access opening 560. As shown by FIGS. 20A and 20B, end 656of cover 562 is tilted and then translated as indicated by arrow 678 soas to locate tube engaging tab 650 beneath portions of tube 606bordering access opening 560. As indicated by arrow 680, latch 564 isrotated about recessed portion 568 to locate openings 674 below latchengaging tab 654.

FIGS. 21A and 21 B illustrate the lowering of cover 562 towards tube 606in the direction indicated by arrow 682. During such lowering, latchengaging tabs 654 are lowered through openings 674 to positions belowcover engaging tabs 670, which are circumferentially offset from latchengaging tabs 654. In the state shown FIG. 21 , cover engaging tabs 670are located within the circumferential passage 660.

FIG. 22A and 22B illustrates the rotation of latch 564 in the directionindicated by arrow 684 from an unlatched state to a latched state. Inthe latched state shown in FIG. 22 , cover engaging tabs 670-1 and 670-2extend within passage 660 and directly overlie latch engaging tabs 654-1and 654-2, respectively. As a result, cover 562 is secured in place overaccess opening 560.

As further shown by FIGS. 22A and 23 , when latch 564 is in the latchedstate, the outer exterior of latch 564, cover 562 and tube 606 are allflush, presenting a continuous smooth outer circumferential andcylindrical surface without any abrupt shoulders or edges, but for theseams between such components. Tube 606 maintains its sleek andaerodynamic construction despite the provision of storage system 550.

To gain access to the interior 556 of tube 606, the general processdescribed above in FIGS. 20A, 21A and 22A is reversed. In particular,latch 654 is rotated about recessed portion 568 in a direction oppositeto arrow 684 shown in FIG. 22A so as to once again position coverengaging tabs 670 over openings 674, in alignment with openings 674 asshown in FIG. 21 B. Thereafter, end 658 of cover 562 may be lifted in adirection opposite to that of arrow 680 to pivot end 658 upwardly to thestate shown in FIG. 20B. Once in this position, cover 562 may betranslated or slid to withdraw tube engaging tab 650 from beneath tube606, permitting cover 562 to be completely separated and detached fromtube 606 as well as latch 564. As described above with respect tostorage system 150, cover 562 may, in some implementations, be tetheredto tube 606.

Storage System 350

FIG. 24 is an enlarged perspective view illustrating bicycle 320 withstorage system 350 including cable retainer 352 and tube pouches 353-1,353-2 positioned within interior 356 of tube 406. For purposes ofillustration, the above-described tube storage 351 is illustratedwithout cover 362 and latch 364. As shown by FIG. 24 , tube pouches 353may be inserted into tube 406, alongside of cable retainer 352, in anend-to-and relationship with the ends of tube pouches 353 underlyingaccess opening 360. Cable retainer 352 manages any cables routed throughtube 406, retaining such cables against the interior sides of tube 406.As a result, such cables minimally interfere with the insertion,withdrawal and positioning of tube pouches 353 in tube 406. In theexample illustrated, cable retainer 352 retains the cables of cabling344 along and just below the rim portion 361 of tube 406 that extendsabout access opening 360, enhancing efficient use of the availablevolume within tube 406.

Cable Retainer

FIG. 25 illustrates bicycle 320 of FIG. 24 with tube pouch 353-2 beingremoved to better illustrate cable retainer 352. Cable retainer 352manages any cables 420 of cabling 344 routed through tube 406, retainingsuch cables against the interior sides of tube 406. As a result, suchcables minimally interfere with the insertion, withdrawal andpositioning of tube pouches 353 in tube 406. In the example illustrated,cable retainer 352 retains the cables 420 of cabling 344 along and justbelow the rim portion 361 of tube 406 about access opening 360,enhancing efficient use of the available volume within tube 406. Inaddition, because cables 420 are held near the top wall of tube 406,storage pouches 353 may be more easily slid along and against the bottominterior surface of tube 406 with less resistance or obstruction.

FIGS. 26-28 illustrate cable retainer 352 removed from the interior 356of tube 406. Cable retainer 352 comprises a flexible panel 700configured to wrap about those cables 420 of cabling 344 when in aclosed state, as shown by FIG. 28 . Cable retainer 352 further comprisesconnector 702 for releasably securing the flexible panel 700 in theclosed state, wrapped about cables 420. Because the flexible panel wrapsabout the cables 420 and is releasably secured in the closed, cablewrapping state, cable retainer 352 may accommodate a different number ofcables 420 or differently sized cables 420 forming cabling 344 and maybe used with different bicycles having different numbers or sizes ofsuch cables. Because the connector 702 releasably retains or secures aflexible panel 700 in the closed, cable wrapping state, flexible panel700 may be moved and opened to enable repositioning or adjustment ofsuch cables 420.

In the example illustrated, flexible panel 700 is formed from a singleintegral backing panel 704 and a connector 702 in the form of a hook andloop fastener comprising a loop pad 706 and a hook pad 708. Backingpanel 704 continuously extends between underlies both of pads 706 and708. As shown by FIG. 27 , backing panel 704 comprises a first portion710 and a second portion 712. First portion 710 is wider than secondportion 712 and supports loop pad 706. Second portion 712 supports hookpad 708 and includes an uncovered or exposed portion 716 extendingbetween hook pad 708 and loop pad 706. As portion 716 is thinner anddoes not support loop pad 706 or hook pad 708, portion 716 may be moreflexible and bendable, forming a living hinge over portion 710. Thethinner construction of portion 716 further forms a cable wrappingportion 718, in the form of a channel, for receiving and wrapping aboutcable 420 (an additional cables 420) of cabling 344. Such cables may bestacked on top of one another and/or pushed down into the hook and looppatches or pads. The hook pad 708 and the loop pad 706 are spaced by adistance of at least 0.5 inch to form an uncovered portion of thebacking panel 704, which forms a cable wrapping portion 716 of theflexible panel 700.

To facilitate manual gripping of portion 712 and the folding orunfolding of portion 712 over and about any of cables 420, cableretainer 352 additionally comprises pull tab 720. Pull tab 720 projectsfrom portion 712 of flexible panel 700. In the example illustrated, pulltab 720 is stitched, glued or otherwise secured to backing panel 704between backing panel 704 and hook pad 708. In other implementations,pull tab 720 may be secured to an underside of backing panel 704, may bestitched to an edge of backing panel 704, or may be omitted.

In one example implementation, backing panel 704 is formed from adurable, no stretch, lightweight material such as ripstop nylon. Pulltab 720 is formed from a nylon webbing. Pads 706 and 708 are eachstitched or sewn to backing panel 704. In other implementations, backingpanel 704 and pulled tab 720 may be formed from other materials and maybe joined to one another in other fashions such as by adhesives,welding, or the like. In some implementations, rather than comprising asingle integral backing panel 704, flexible panel 700 may comprisemultiple distinct panels which are sewn, bonded or otherwise joinedtogether.

In some implementations, flexible panel 700 may comprise other forms ofconnectors in lieu of a hook and loop fastener to releasably secureportion 712 in a closed or wrapped state about cabling 344 and overportion 710. In some implementations, in lieu of a single large loop pad706 and a single large hook pad 708, connector 702 may be formed frommultiple spaced smaller hook and loop pads that overlap and interconnectto one another when portion 712 is wrapped about cabling 344 and issecured to portion 710. In some implementations, portion 712 may bereleasably secured in an overlapping fashion to portion 710 by snaps,quick release buckles, a zipper or other connection mechanisms.

FIG. 28 illustrates flexible panel 700 in a closed state, wrapped abouta pair of cables 420 which are part of cabling 344. Because loop pad 706(and its underlying portion 710 of backing panel 704) is wider andlonger than hook pad 708 (and its underlying portion 712 of backingpanel 704), hook pad 708 may be more securely connected to loop pad 706even when secured at an off angle. As a result, the chance that the hookand loop pads of two portions 712 and 710 may become disconnected duringthe removal of tube pouches 353 or the insertion of tube pouches 353 isreduced. In other implementations, hook pad 708 and loop pad 706 mayhave similar dimensions. In some implementations, portion 710 mayalternatively support a hook pad while portion 712 supports a loop pad.

FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrated cable retainer 352 deployed in tube 406.FIG. 29 illustrates cable retainer 352 with flexible panel 700 foldedabout cables 420 of cabling 344 and retained in a closed state byconnector 702. For purposes of illustration, tube storage 351 isillustrated without cover 362 or latch 364. As shown by FIG. 29 , firstportion 710 of backing panel 704 and of flexible panel 700 is retainedadjacent to and close conformity to the interior surface of tube 406 onone side of access opening 360. In the example illustrated, firstportion 712 is adhesively bonded to the interior of tube 406. In otherimplementations, first portion 710 may be retained against and inconformal contact with the interior surface of tube 406 by other meanssuch as snaps or the like. In some implementations, first portion 710 isretained against and in conformal contact with the interior surface oftube 406 by a spring, such as a flat spring having opposite ends withattained in first portion 710 and intermediate portions resuming bent toa curved shape along the interior surface of tube 406.

As further shown by FIG. 29 , in some implementations, cable retainer352 may additionally comprise a tether 730 and a clip 752. Tether 730has a first and 754 secured to a back face of second portion 712 offlexible panel 700 and a second end 756 secured to clip 752. Clip 752comprise a mechanism to releasably attach to a tool or other item 758such as a key or multiple keys. Such items may be released from clip752. When being stored, such items 758, along with tether 730 may belocated within tube 406 below cover 362. In some implementations, tether730 clip 752 may be omitted.

As shown by FIG. 30 , second portion 712 forms a top flap, which whenopened, extends outside of tube 406. Second portion 712 is able to flopover the side of tube 406 and may remain there without being fixed orheld in place by a rider or mechanic. As a result, the rider or mechanicmay adjust cable placement as desired before once again pivoting theflap formed by second portion 712 about the adjusted cables and back tothe closed position shown in FIG. 29 .

Tube Pouch

FIGS. 31-32 illustrate tube pouch 353-1, which is identical to pouch353-2. Tube pouch 353-1 comprises an elongate storage pouch sized andconfigured to be inserted through access opening 360 and pushed into theinterior of tube 406 as shown in FIG. 24 and to be pulled from tube 406through access opening 360. Tube pouch 353-1 comprises a cylindricalouter wall 800 and axial end caps 802 and 804. In the exampleillustrated, end caps 802 and 804 are butted and cross stitched by crossstitches 806 to the edges of cylindrical wall 800 to reduce overlappingfabrics and conserve space.

Tube pouch 353-1 has an interior for storing items, wherein the interiormay be accessed through the actuation of zipper 808 which extends alonga top of the adjoining edges of outer wall 800. In the exampleillustrated, endcap 804 further comprises a middle slit 848 along whichzipper 808 further extends, facilitating the opening of tube pouch 353-1to a near flat state at end 809 as shown in FIGS. 33 and 34 . In theexample illustrated, the teeth of zipper 808 are substantially, if notcompletely, covered by the material of outer wall 800. In the exampleillustrated, zipper 808 comprises a toothed nylon coil zipper. In otherimplementations, the adjacent edges of outer wall 800 forming the mainmouth of tube pouch 353-1 may be selectively closed by other closingmechanisms such as hook and loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, non-toothedplastic zippers (ZIPLOC) and the like.

As further shown by FIGS. 31 and 32 , tube pouch 353-1 further comprisesa pull tab 810 stitched or otherwise secured to a bottom side of outerwall 800 at front end 809. Pull tab 810 is to be positioned below accessopening 360 when to pouch 353-1 is inserted into tube 406 as shown inFIG. 24 . Pull tab 810 may be grasped by a person to pull to pouch 353-1and withdraw pouch 353-1 from tube 406 through access opening 360.

FIGS. 33 and 34 illustrate tube pouch 353-1 in an open state and depictthe interior 814 of pouch 353-1. In the example illustrated, pouch 353-1comprises additional interior panels 820 and 822 secured to insidesurfaces of outer wall 800 stitching, adhesives, welds or the like. Asshown by FIG. 33 , panel 820 is joined to outer wall 800 at end 809along three sides to form an interior pocket 826 with the open side oredge forming a mouth 828 for the pocket 826. Mouth 828 faces end 809,facilitating insertion of articles into pocket 826 from the opened end809 and in axial a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of tubepouch 353-1. In the example illustrated, panel 820 is formed from aresiliently stretchable material such as a polyester spandex blend suchthat panel 820 may be stretched to accommodate large articles and maygrip and retain such articles within pocket 826.

As shown by FIG. 34 , panel 822 is joined to outer wall 800 opposite topanel 822 adjacent end 809. Panel 822 is joined to outer wall 800 alongthree sides to form an interior pocket 830 with the open side or edgeforming a mouth 832. Mouth 832 faces in a direction perpendicular to themouth 828, parallel to the longitudinal axis of tube pouch 353-1. In theexample illustrated, mouth 832 is selectively closed by an internalzipper 834. In other implementations, mouth 832 may be left open or maybe selectively closed by other closing mechanisms such as hook and loopfasteners, snaps, buttons, plastic non-toothed zippers (ZIP LOC) and thelike. Because pocket 826 and pocket 832 are both positioned proximate tothe front end 809 and the split axial endcap 804 where pouch 353-1 maybe opened, access to such pockets and their content is enhanced. In someimplementations, one or both of pocket 826 and 832 may be omitted or maybe provided at other interior locations. In some implementations,additional pocket along the interior of pouch 353-1 may be provided. Insome implementations, a ring may be tethered along the interior 814, thering adapted to be connected to keys or other items.

FIGS. 35 and 36 are bottom and top views of pouch 353-1 prior to outerwall 800 being joined to end caps 802, 804 by stitching or otherconnection methods and prior to the inclusion of zipper 808. As shown byFIGS. 35 and 36 , outer wall 800 and endcap's 802, 804 may be formed orcut from a single continuous piece of material or panel 838. As shown byarrows 839 in FIG. 36 , edges 840 of the central rectangle 842 ofmaterial are butted to edges of endcap 802, 804 and cross stitched. Asdiscussed above, edges 844 of the rectangle 842 extend parallel to oneanother and are selectively closed by a zipper secured to an innersurface of outer wall 800 along edges 844. The zipper further extendsdown along the opposite edges 846 of the slit 848 extending acrossendcap 804.

FIG. 37 is an exploded view illustrating the different layers ofmaterial forming the panel 838 used to form outer wall 800 and end caps802, 804. Panel 838 comprises a lamination or bonding of multiple layerssuch that there is no loose fabric or material between the layers. Suchlayers comprise interior layer 850, exterior layer 852 and intermediatelayer 854. Interior layer 850 forms the interior surface of outer wall800 and end caps 802, 804. In some implementations, interior layer 850may be formed from a soft material such as a polyester. Exterior layer852 forms the exterior of tube pouch 353-1 and is formed from a durablematerial such as a nylon. In some implementations, nylon is slightlystretchable.

Intermediate layer 854 is bonded to and sandwiched between layers 850and 852. Intermediate layer 854 comprises a layer of padding or foam.Intermediate layer 854 provides tube pouch 353-1 with an enhanced degreeof axial stiffness or resistance against axial compression. In someimplementations, tube pouch 353-1 when supported on its axial endsbetween a pair of flat plates can withstand a vertical load (the weightexerted by the top plate and any additional weight on the plate) of atleast 1 pound before the outer walls 800 inwardly bending or creasing.As a result, tube pouch 353-1 may be more easily pushed from axial end809 into and along tube 406 with a reduced likelihood of tube pouch353-1 bending or bunching up as it is being pushed into tube 406.

At the same time, intermediate layer 854 is resiliently compressible ina radial direction, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis or centerlineof tube pouch 353-1. As a result, the outer surface of tube pouch 353-1may be inwardly compressed as it is being inserted to facilitate slidingmovement of tube pouch 353-1 within the interior of tube 406 and pastany surface obstructions along the interior of tube 406. In someimplementations, the outer surface of tube 353-1 may be coated orotherwise provided with an outer surface that has a low degree orcoefficient of friction with respect to the interior surface of tube406. For example, in some implementations, the outer surface may becoated with a polytetrafluoroethylene (TEFLON) material to furtherfacilitate the pushing of tube pouch 353-1 axially along the interior oftube 406.

In some implementations, intermediate layer 854 is formed from neopreneand has a thickness of at least 1 mm and no greater than 5 mm. In otherimplementations, intermediate layer 854 may be formed from othermaterials and of other thicknesses yet providing to pouch 353-1 with theabove-noted axial stiffness. In the example illustrated, intermediatelayer 854 may provide a majority of the axial stiffness of tube pouch353-1. In other implementations, a greater portion of the axialstiffness of tube pouch 353-1 may be provided by the other layersforming panel 838.

FIG. 38 illustrates insertion of tube pouch 353-1 through access opening360 and along tube 406. As shown by FIG. 38 , the axial stiffness oftube pouch 353-1 facilitates pushing of tube pouch 353-1 through accessopening 360 and along tube 406. FIG. 39 is a sectional view of portionsof the example bicycle 320 illustrating cover 362 closing access opening360, latch 364 in a latched state, cable retainer 352 retaining cables420 of cabling 344 adjacent the upper interior side of tube 406, andtube pouch 353-1 inserted into tube 406.

As shown by FIG. 38 , in addition to providing to pouch 353-1 with anaxial stiffness to facilitate pushing of tube pouch 353-1 along tube406, the resilient compressibility of outer wall 800, provided by thepadding or foam layer 854, may serve two additional functions. First,the resilient compressibility of outer wall 800 enables wall 800 to becompressed inwardly (towards the tube interior), facilitating thesqueezing of those portions of tube pouch 353-1 that extend belowrecessed portion 368 of tube 406. As a result, may once again expand toa larger state or shape once moved past recessed portion 368 while thoseportions remaining ops to recessed portion 368 remain compressed andgrip recessed portion 368 to assist in retaining the axial position oftube pouch 353-1 within tube 406, resisting accidental or inadvertentaxial movement of tube pouch 353-1 within tube 406.

In some implementations, tube pouch 353-1 is dimensioned so as to havean outer cross-sectional dimension (diameter) substantially equal to theinternal diameter of tube 406 such that outer wall 800 closely fitsagainst the interior surfaces of tube 406 even in those portions of tube406 beyond recessed portion 368, taking full advantage of the availablevolume within tube 406. In one example implementation, the generallycylindrical shape of tube pouch 353-1, when not compressed inwardly orstretched outwardly, has and outer diameter that is at least 75% of theinner diameter of tube 406 in those portions of tube 406 beyond recessedportion 368. In some implementations, tube pouch 353-1 has an outerdiameter greater than the distance separating recessed portion 368 inthe opposite interior surface of tube 406.

Second, the resilient compressibility of outer wall 800 enables outerwall 800 to be compressed outwardly (from the tube interior), permittinglarger items to be squeezed into the interior of tubular pouch 353-1.The resilient nature of outer wall 800 causes outer wall 800 to squeezeabout and grip the stored items 860 shown in broken lines). As a result,the stored items 860 are less likely to move relative to one another andare less likely to move relative to tube 406, reducing any tendency forsuch stored items to rattle or make undesirable noise while being storedwithin tube 406. In some implementations, the compressibility of outerwall 800 enables items to compress portions of outer wall 800 withoutimpacting its outer diameter. Likewise, the compressibility of outerwiser for enables the outer wall 800 to compress inwardly withoutaltering the inner diameter of outer wall 800.

In some implementations, tube pouch 353-1 may be dimensioned so as tomore easily slide or move within tube 406 with less resistance fromfriction and/or outer wall 800 being inwardly compressed. In suchimplementations, tube pouch 353-1 may be secured actually within tube406 in other fashions. In the example illustrated, pull tab 810 isprovided with a hook pad 858 on his lower side for engaging portions ofthe loop pad 706 of cable retainer 352. As should be appreciated, inimplementations where first portion 710 alternatively comprises a hookpad, pull tab 810 may alternatively be provided with a hook pad 858.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 39 , cable retainer 352 comprise anadditional panel 862 secured to a side of second portion 712, oppositeto hook pad 708, by stitching, welds, adhesives or the like. Panel 862forms a pocket 864 having a mouth 868 for the insertion of additionalitems 836, such as keys or the like. Mouth 868 faces access opening 360.In the example illustrated, mouth 868 is selectively closable byconnector 870, such as a hook and loop fastener. In otherimplementations, mouth 868 may be selectively closable by otherconnectors such as a button, a toothed zipper, a plastic toothlesszipper (ZIPLOC) or the like.

In some implementations, panel 862 may instead be secured to anadditional panel which is releasably coupled to the side of the secondportion 712 that is opposite to hook pad 708. In such implementations,the additional panel may be releasably coupled to the side of secondportion 712 by hook and loop fastener or other connectors such that theadditional panel and panel 862 forming the auxiliary pocket 864 may beselectively removed from cable retainer 352. In some implementations,panel 862 may be omitted.

FIG. 40 illustrates the removal of tube pouch 353-1 from tube 406. Asshown by FIG. 40 , a person may grasp pull tab 810 and lift and pullpull tab 810 to withdraw tube pouch 353-1.

Bicycle 920

FIGS. 41 and 42 illustrate portions of an example bicycle 920. FIGS. 41and 42 illustrate an example of how cables 420 routed through a bicycletube may be managed to facilitate insertion of a storage pouch orpouches, such as storage pouches 353. Bicycle 920 is similar to bicycle320 described above except that bicycle 920 comprises cable retainer 952in place of cable retainer 352. The remaining components of bicycle 920that correspond components of bicycle 320 are numbered similarly and/orare shown in the prior figures.

Cable retainer 952 holds and retains cables 420 of cabling 344 along theinterior sides and near a top of tube 406, proximate to the rimextending about access opening 360, during insertion of storage pouches,such as tube pouches 353. As shown by FIG. 42 , cable retainer 952comprises flexible panel 960, connector 962, and tether 964.

Flexible panel 960 comprise a strap or band configured to be wrappedabout cables 420 of cabling 344 when in a closed state. Connector 962releasably secures flexible panel 960 in the closed state. In oneexample, connector 962 comprises a hook and loop fastener having a hookpad and a loop pad which may be secured to another to form a sleeve forwrapping about cabling 344. The hook and loop connector enables andportions of panel 960 2B differently connected to one another atdifferent locations to form a cable wrapping sleeve having an adjustablediameter to accommodate different numbers of cables.

Tether 964 comprise a cord, strap or the like having a first end 966secured to flexible panel 960 by stitching, welds, adhesives or the likeand a second end 968 secured to an underside of cover 362 such as with aknot, adhesives or other connection methods. During insertion of astorage container, such as tube storage 353-1, tether 964 and/or cover362 may be pulled to lift the sleeve form by flexible panel 960 and thesurrounded cables 420 towards and against the top interior of tube 406.While such cables 420 are held largely out of the way, tube pouch 353-1(or two pouch 353-2) may be pushed into tube 406, sliding along thebottom floor of the interior of tube 406. During insertion, tube pouch353-1 may further push those portions of cables 420 that are beyondaccess opening 360 upwards. After tube pouch 353-1 (and possibly tubepouch 353-2) have been inserted into tube 406, tether 964 may beinserted into the interior of tube 406 below access opening 360 andcover 362 may be positioned to close access opening 360 and latched inplace by latch 364.

In the example illustrated, tether 964 further assists in connectingcover 362 to tube 406 when disconnected from access opening 360 andlatch 364. In some implementations, tether 964 may not be connected tocover 362, but may form a pull cord or tab for moving cables 420 out ofthe way during the insertion of tube pouches 353.

Although the above-described cable retainers 352 and 952 are illustratedand described above as being employed with bicycle 320 and its tubestorage 351, cable retainer 352 and 952 may be employed in any of theabove-describe storage systems 50, 250 or other similar storage systems.Although the above-described tube pouches 353 are described andillustrated as being employed with bicycle 320 and its tube storage 351and cable retainer 352, tube pouches 353 may be employed in otherbicycles having different cable retainers are no cable retainers or indifferent bikers having different forms of a tube storage. Likewise,tube storage 351 and cable retainer 352 may be used with other storagecontainers other than to pouches 353.

Although each of the above-described storage systems with theabove-described covers, latches, cable retainers and tube pouches aredescribed with respect to a frame of a bicycle having pedals and anassociated transmission and braking system, in other implementations,the above-described storage systems may be used in the frames andassociated tubes of other similar wheeled vehicles. For example, theabove-described storage system may likewise be employed in a tube of theframe of a unicycle, tricycle, four-wheeled cycle or the like. Theabove-described storage systems may be employed in in the frame tubescycles (one, two, three or four wheeled cycles) which may additionallyinclude a battery and motor for assisting with the propulsion of thecycle. The above-described storage systems may be employed in the frametubes of multi-person cycles. The above-described storage systems may beemployed in the frame tubes of vehicles having propulsion systems thatdo not rely upon peddling by a rider, such as electrical or internalcombustion engine powered scooters or the like.

Although the present disclosure has been described with reference toexample implementations, workers skilled in the art will recognize thatchanges may be made in form and detail without departing from the scopeof the claimed subject matter. For example, although different exampleimplementations may have been described as including features providingbenefits, it is contemplated that the described features may beinterchanged with one another or alternatively be combined with oneanother in the described example implementations or in other alternativeimplementations. Because the technology of the present disclosure isrelatively complex, not all changes in the technology are foreseeable.The present disclosure described with reference to the exampleimplementations and set forth in the following claims is manifestlyintended to be as broad as possible. For example, unless specificallyotherwise noted, the claims reciting a single particular element alsoencompass a plurality of such particular elements. The terms “first”,“second”, “third” and so on in the claims merely distinguish differentelements and, unless otherwise stated, are not to be specificallyassociated with a particular order or particular numbering of elementsin the disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A bicycle comprising: a frame comprising a hollowtube having an interior; a cable passing through the interior; and acable retainer within the interior, the cable retainer comprising: aflexible panel, in a closed state, wrapped about the cable; and aconnector releasably securing the flexible panel in the closed state. 2.The bicycle of claim 1, wherein the flexible panel is adhesively securedto an inside of the tube.
 3. The bicycle of claim 2, wherein theflexible panel comprises: a first portion adhesively secured to aninside of the tube; and a second portion pivotable relative to the firstportion between a first position outside the tube and a second positionadjacent the first portion, wrapped about the cable in the closed state.4. The bicycle of claim 3, wherein the flexible panel comprises: asingle integral backing panel providing the first portion and the secondportion; a hook pad secured to one of the first portion and the secondportion; and a loop pad secured to the other of the first portion andthe second portion.
 5. The bicycle of claim 4, further comprising a pulltab coupled to and extending from the second portion of the flexiblepanel.
 6. The bicycle of claim 4, wherein the hook pad and the loop padare spaced by a distance of at least 0.5 inch to form an uncoveredportion of the backing panel which forms a cable wrapping portion of theflexible panel.
 7. The bicycle of claim 2, wherein the flexible panelcomprises: a first portion adjacent an interior surface and of the tube;and a second portion pivotable relative to the first portion between afirst position outside the tube and a second position adjacent the firstportion, wrapped about the cable in the closed state; and a springretaining the first portion against the interior surface of the tube. 8.The bicycle of claim 7, wherein the spring comprises a flat springhaving opposite ends retained to the first portion and intermediateportions resiliently bent to a curved shape along the interior surfaceof the tube.
 9. The bicycle of claim 1, wherein the connector comprisesa hook and loop fastener.
 10. The bicycle of claim 1, wherein the tubecomprises a down tube of the bicycle frame.
 11. The bicycle claim 1,wherein the flexible panel includes a pocket for receiving articles. 12.The bicycle of claim 1, wherein the tube comprises an access openingproviding access to the interior and wherein the bicycle furthercomprises: a cover closing the access opening; and a latch releasablysecuring the cover to the tube, the latch being slidable relative to thecover in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tubebetween a latched state and unlatched state.
 13. The bicycle of claim12, wherein the access opening extends through a top of the tube. 14.The bicycle of claim 12, wherein the cover and the latch havecorresponding exterior surface shapes and are flush when the latch is inthe latched state.
 15. The bicycle of claim 14, wherein the cover andthe latch have perimeter exterior surfaces flush with adjacent exteriorsurfaces of the tube about the access opening.
 16. The bicycle of claim12, wherein the tube comprises a forward knob on a first end of theaccess opening and a rearward knob on a second end of the accessopening, wherein the cover releasably engages the first knob and whereinthe latch is held to the tube by the rearward knob and slides relativeto the rearward knob.
 17. The bicycle of claim 1, wherein the tubecomprises an access opening providing access to the interior and whereinthe bicycle further comprises: a cover closing the access opening; and alatch releasably securing the cover to the tube, the latch being movablebetween a latched state and unlatched state, wherein the main portionand the latch have corresponding exterior surface shapes and are flushwhen the latch is in the latched state and wherein the main portion andthe latch have perimeter exterior surfaces flush with adjacent exteriorsurfaces of the tube about the access opening.
 18. The bicycle of claim1, wherein the tube comprises an access opening providing access to theinterior and a cover closing the access opening and wherein the bicyclefurther comprises a flexible tether connecting the flexible panel to thecover.
 19. The bicycle of claim 1, wherein the tube comprises an accessopening and wherein the bicycle further comprises a tube pouchconfigured to be inserted through the access opening and along theinterior of the hollow tube, the tube pouch comprising an outerresiliently compressible wall.
 20. The bicycle of claim 19, wherein theinterior of the hollow tube has an internal diameter and wherein thetube pouch has an outer diameter of at least 75% of the internaldiameter.
 21. The bicycle of claim 20, wherein the tube pouch, whensupported on its axial ends between a pair of flat plates can withstanda vertical load of at least 1 pound before outer walls of the tube pouchbegin inwardly bending or creasing.
 22. The bicycle of claim 20, whereinthe flexible panel supports a first one of a hook pad and a loop pad andwherein the tube pouch comprises a second one of a hook pad and a looppad to releasably engage the first one of the hook pad and the loop padwhen the tube pouch is inserted into the hollow tube.
 23. A bicyclecomprising: a frame comprising a hollow tube having an interior and anaccess opening communication with the interior, the hollow tubesupporting a first one of a hook pad and a loop pad; and a tube pouchremovably inserted into the interior, the tube pouch configured to beinserted through the access opening and along the interior of the hollowtube, the tube pouch comprising an outer resiliently compressible wall,the tube pouch further comprising a second one of the hook pad and theloop pad to releasably engage the first one of the hook pad in the looppad when the tube pouch is inserted into the hollow tube.
 24. Thebicycle of claim 23, wherein the interior of the hollow tube has aninternal diameter and wherein the tube pouch has an outer diameter of atleast 75% of the internal diameter.
 25. The bicycle of claim 23, whereinthe tube pouch, when supported on its axial ends between a pair of flatplates can withstand a vertical load of at least 1 pound before outerwalls of the tube pouch begin inwardly bending or creasing.